Everton likely to lose out on the race to sign Nikola Kalinic

The Merseysiders could face heartbreak in their pursuit of Nikola Kalinic, as reports suggest that he is not interested in a return to England.

The Croatian international, who netted 15 times in 32 Serie A games last season, seems to favor a move to the Italian giants AC Milan and his current side Fiorentina may be willing to accept an offer of around £23 million for the striker, according to reports from Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Blues have been splashing out on big transfer fees this summer, including £30million each on Jordan Pickford and Michael Keane, and £23.6million on Ajax’s Davy Klaassen.

However, Ronald Koeman has lost top scorer Romelu Lukaku to Manchester United, and as a result, the Dutchman would like to sign another striker despite adding Spanish youngster Sandro Ramirez in a £5.25million deal from Malaga and welcoming Wayne Rooney back at Goodison Park earlier on in the summer.

The asking price for Kalinic is not much of a problem given the Lukaku money is still in the bank and similar prices have been quoted for Arsenal’s Olivier Giroud, their other option.

Unfortunately, it seems that regardless of money not being an issue, the striker will not be heading to Goodison Park any time soon.

Corriere dello Sport reports that the player is not interested in a return to England having endured a rough time with Blackburn Rovers in the past.

This will come as something of a blow to the Toffees, as an additional striker would have added depth to an already tasty looking squad. However, Everton will now have to turn their attention elsewhere.